The journey to Chernihiv - the needs remain accute

The drive from Kiyv to Chernihiv took a bit more than 4 hours. To avoid the destroyed bridge of the highway, we have to use a 2-lane road in a big forest. Roads are generally in bad shape in Ukraine but here you add the numerous checkpoints. Each time, ID and a document legitimising the goods that we transported. Taking pictures and videos remains totally prohibited because of the makeshift fortifications on the way. At least twice we had to hold our breath as we were crossing bridges that had been just quickly repaired. As we were approaching the city, the traces of recent battles became visible: remains of a few tanks and then houses and factories in ruins. My 2 companions, just coming back to the city after the siege, who had remained quite silent during the trip, became suddenly more tense and emotional.

We finally reached out destination: the Roman Catholic parish of the Holy Spirit. Father Pyotr of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary received us with our shipment of food and medicine. 2 days ago the 30 people who had been sleeping with them in the basement since the beginning of the offensive could go back home. Only one family remains there because their house is totally destroyed. Gas and electricity are also back at least in this neighbourhood. But supply of basic necessities remains scarce.

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BoMozhemo's Roof Brigade

After the frame has been repaired, covered with plastic sheeting, and the asbestos delivered, the strike team can go into action, summoned by a post on Telegram, in the evening as usual. The side is picked. And off we go : the first sheet of asbestos can be sent for fitting and nailing by the roof climbers. The asbestos rise at a steady pace, sometimes slowed down by the necessary trimming, but the laughter and joyful exchanges continue uninterrupted until well after dark, when the roof is completely covered. Another family protected from the elements.

A video from Br Leopold in the Chernihiv supply centre.

Here a well-made short video from the supply centre in Chernihiv where br Leopold has been helping the distribution teams take vital aid to villages in the region. Many people there are homeless or living in houses which do not protect from rain and cold anymore. With infrastructures destroyed or damaged and employment completely disrupted, many many people (especially the most fragile) depend on these teams bringing them food and medicine. Please keep helping.

TIME TO GO BACK

Work is now completed in Yevgueni and Tania's house. But so many people are still exposed to the cold in bombed houses. With your generosity, we hope to go back and show them that they are not alone in the tribulation, that the victory is where there is hope and solidarity.

ST. JAN - CHARITY UKRAINE

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